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Pica

What Is Pica?

Pica is an eating disorder characterized by the persistent eating of non-nutritive, non-food substances over a period of at least one month. The behavior must be developmentally inappropriate and not part of a culturally supported or socially normative practice. Common substances consumed include ice, clay, dirt, sand, paper, soap, hair, cloth, chalk, metal, pebbles, charcoal, or ash. Pica can occur alongside other mental health conditions or medical conditions, and it can lead to serious health complications.

What Are the Signs of Pica?

Signs of pica include persistent eating of non-food items for at least one month, the behavior occurring despite appropriate developmental level (beyond the age where such behavior is typical), the behavior not being part of cultural practice, eating substances that have no nutritional value, continuation despite knowledge of potential harm, possible nutritional deficiencies or medical complications, and potential coexistence with other eating disorders or conditions.

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Please contact our support staff
to schedule a consultation at
(212) 308-2440
or intake@cognitivetherapynyc.com

What Causes Pica?

american-institute-for-cognitive-therapy-picaThe causes of pica are not fully understood but may include nutritional deficiencies (particularly iron, zinc, or other minerals), developmental disorders or intellectual disabilities, mental health conditions including obsessive compulsive disorder, pregnancy-related cravings, cultural or learned behaviors, stress or anxiety, and neurobiological factors. In some cases, the specific substance craved may be related to underlying nutritional needs, though this is not always the case.

Health Risks Associated with Pica

Pica can lead to serious health complications including intestinal blockages or perforations, infections or parasites from contaminated substances, lead poisoning or other toxic exposures, dental damage, nutritional deficiencies, and interference with nutrient absorption. Medical evaluation is essential for anyone engaging in pica behaviors.

How Can Treatment Help?

Treatment for pica involves a multidisciplinary approach including medical evaluation to identify and treat nutritional deficiencies or complications, psychological assessment to understand contributing factors, cognitive-behavioral therapy to address thoughts and behaviors maintaining the pattern, behavioral interventions to reduce accessibility to non-food items, nutritional counseling to ensure adequate nutrition, and treatment of any co-occurring mental health or developmental conditions.

Your therapist will work with you to identify triggers for pica behaviors, develop alternative coping strategies, address any underlying anxiety or stress, and create a comprehensive treatment plan in coordination with your medical providers.